Hundreds of new homes could be built on a former industrial site in Stockton.

Property giant Barratt Homes hopes to build 552 modern houses and apartments on derelict land near Norton Road.

The site, largely owned by Stockton Council and Able UK, has been used as an engineering works, a coal depot and timber yard in the past.

However, it now represents a prime area for residential development and Barratt Homes, one the UK's biggest housebuilders, this month submitted detailed plans for its Queens Park proposals to Stockton Council.

A statement to planners by consultants White Young Green says: "The scheme offers the potential for a high-quality residential layout with a good mix of units reflecting the guidance contained at a national, regional and local level.

"The site is brownfield land, situated in an extremely sustainable location within walking distance of Stockton Town Centre and the shops and services located there.

"The sustainable characteristics of the site are further emphasised by the close proximity to public transport, linking Queens Park with the rest of the borough and North-east region."

If given the green light, building work is expected to start in 2008 and take about 12 years to complete.

The statement adds: "The introduction of housing over a 10-year period from 2007/8 will assist the council's housing strategy and assist in it achieving the targets set by the Regional Spatial Strategy.

The proposed delivery of approximately 50 dwellings per year will also ensure that other housing schemes can come forward within the borough without prejudicing these targets." Stockton Council is expected to make a decision shortly.